SOME of Cumbria’s leading innovators in tourism and hospitality are joining top industry experts for a special event this week to help businesses plan for future success.

The free event tomorrow at Roundthorn Country House near Penrith is being hosted by ITV Border’s Kate Walby.

It is bringing together a panel of experts from the legal, financial, tax and insurance worlds to share their top tips on futureproofing tourism businesses and planning for future succession - whether that’s passing on to the next generation, selling up, or other ways to exit.

With years of industry experience between them, Armstrong Watson, Burnetts Solicitors, H&H Insurance and The Cumberland are all trusted strategic partners of Cumbria Tourism.

Their practical sessions will feature the important legal considerations that apply from a business, property and employment perspective. Highlights also include the importance of having the right insurance cover in place, as well as practical advice on how to deal with potential claims.

Plus, speakers are highlighting how best to use financial data to help with decision-making and identifying and monitoring targets to help achieve success against business objectives, along with succession planning and the importance of having plans in place for the future of your business.

There is also a focus on the latest marketplace trends and a chance to hear from three award-winning guest speakers: Hrishikesh Desai from Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Jess Manley from The Yan and Muncaster Castle’s Ewan Frost-Pennington. 

Host for the day, Kate Walby, said: “Tourism makes a huge contribution to the economic and cultural vibrancy of Cumbria and is an industry which is constantly evolving.

It’s vital that leisure and tourism businesses plan for the future to continue to survive and thrive, so I’m looking forward to welcoming tourism operators of all types and sizes to this informative and forward-thinking event.

“I’m also thrilled to be hosting an expert panel and a ‘question and answer’ session with some of our most well-known leaders in the tourism industry. I’m sure the businesses who attend will gain a lot of value from this advice.” 

Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, added: “From banking and financial services, to legal know-how and top tax tips, this is a unique opportunity to gain valuable and guidance from teams of local experts who have years of professional experience.

"We are hearing from some of the trailblazing tourism businesses who are leading our industry in areas including sustainability, growth and top-notch customer service.

"This truly is a masterclass and a session not to be missed by forward-thinking businesses who want to stay one step ahead of the competition!”

Refreshments and lunch are included on the day, along with the chance to network with other  businesses. To secure a last-minute space, visit: www.cumbriatourism.org/upcoming-events.